Editor's Note: As the Asia-Pacific navigates global challenges and economic uncertainty, how can regional cooperation help sustain growth and stability? What role can China and ASEAN play in shaping the region's future? In this edition of Leaders Talk, CMG's He Yanke sits down with ASEAN Secretary-General Kao Kim Hourn to discuss the future of regional cooperation, as the 33rd APEC Economic Leaders' Meeting in Shenzhen, China, approaches. They explore ASEAN's role in the Asia-Pacific, the importance of open trade, and the growing significance of the China-ASEAN comprehensive strategic partnership. They also examine how the upgraded ASEAN-China Free Trade Area 3.0, infrastructure connectivity and the digital economy can create new opportunities for shared development. Kao also shares his views on China's role in promoting regional peace, stability and prosperity, and the importance of keeping people at the heart of China-ASEAN relations.